Australia Reports Sharp Rise in Anti-Muslim Incidents

Australia Reports Sharp Rise in Anti-Muslim Incidents
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Australia has recorded a significant increase in Islamophobia, with incidents of anti-Muslim hate rising by 150% as of November 2024, according to a government-commissioned report. The findings, released by Aftab Malik, the Special Envoy for Islamophobia, describe hostility toward Muslims as reaching “unprecedented levels,” with many cases going unreported. Women and children were among the most frequent targets, facing harassment, abuse, and vandalism linked to their religious identity.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking at a press conference in Sydney, said his government would review the 60-page report, which includes 54 recommendations. Among them are a formal inquiry into religious discrimination and the broader impact of Islamophobia on social cohesion and democracy.

The report noted a sharp escalation in anti-Muslim sentiment following the October 7, 2023 attacks and the subsequent Gaza conflict. Albanese emphasized that discrimination based on faith undermines Australia’s core values and reaffirmed his commitment to combating hatred and division.